Chili

• Olive oil (1 tablespoon, 15ml): Browns the meat and veggies. Sub: Vegetable oil or avocado oil.
• Ground turkey (1 lb, or ground chicken/beef): Lean protein base. Sub: Plant-based ground meat or lentils for vegetarian.
• Yellow onion (1 cup chopped, 130g, 1 medium): Adds savory depth. Sub: White onion or shallots.
• Bell pepper (1 cup chopped, 130g): Brings mild crunch and color. Sub: Red/yellow bell pepper or poblano.
• Jalapeño (1/2, finely chopped, seeds/ribs removed): Adds mild heat. Sub: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or omit.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances savory warmth. Sub: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
• Tomato sauce (2 x 8-ounce cans, 227g each): Creates a rich, tangy base. Sub: Homemade tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup, 120ml): Adds savory liquid. Sub: Vegetable or beef broth.
• Diced tomatoes (14.5-ounce can, 411g, drained): Provide chunky texture. Sub: Fire-roasted tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes.
• Kidney beans (15.5-ounce can, 439g, drained and rinsed): Add protein and heartiness. Sub: Black beans or pinto beans.
• Brown sugar (1 tablespoon, 12g): Balances acidity with sweetness. Sub: Honey or maple syrup.
• Chili powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brings warm spice. Sub: Paprika or cayenne (use less).
• Dried oregano (1 1/2 teaspoons): Adds herby depth. Sub: Italian seasoning or fresh oregano (1 tablespoon).
• Ground cumin (1 1/2 teaspoons): Provides smoky flavor. Sub: Coriander or extra chili powder.
• Salt (3/4 teaspoon): Enhances flavors. Sub: Kosher salt or low-sodium alternatives.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground): Adds mild heat. Sub: White pepper.

Cornbread Topping

• Fine cornmeal (1 cup, 120g): Gives classic cornbread texture. Sub: Polenta or gluten-free cornmeal.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup, 125g, spooned & leveled): Provides structure. Sub: Gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures a fluffy rise. Sub: No substitute; critical for leavening.
• Salt (1/8 teaspoon): Enhances flavor. Sub: Kosher salt.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, 113g, melted, slightly cooled): Adds richness. Sub: Vegetable oil or vegan butter.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup, 50g): Adds subtle sweetness. Sub: Granulated sugar or honey.
• Egg (1 large, room temperature): Binds and adds structure. Sub: Flax egg for vegan.
• Buttermilk or whole milk (1 cup, 240ml, room temperature): Keeps cornbread moist. Sub: Plant-based milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar.
• Corn (1 cup, 170g, optional, fresh, frozen, or canned/drained): Adds texture and sweetness. Sub: Omit or use diced bell pepper.
• Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for flavor. Sub: Green onions or cilantro.

These ingredients are pantry-friendly and versatile, creating a wholesome, hearty casserole.